"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
- John 3:16
Aid, Transformation, Growth
The humble beginnings of Gloucester City Mission (GCM) began in 2003 by its founder, Mike Curtis. While GCM has grown over the years in size, we continue to adhere to the core values of providing love, support and encouragement to those that need it in the Gloucester area.
Our focus is to build relationships with people living on the streets, encourage the use of the services provided at the GCM Homeless Day Provision, and advocate growth through GCM Recovery Support.
History
The first City Mission was started in Glasgow during the 1820’s by David Naismith, who believed that Christians needed to visibly share their faith through deeds as well as words.
Today, the British Association of City Missions is a network of more than twenty such interdenominational missions across the UK and Ireland, helping some of the neediest people in our cities. 183 years later, in 2003, Gloucester City Mission was born.
Staff & Trustees
We are a small team of 11 that contribute to the running of GCM, headed up by General Manager (and Non-Trustee Officer), Louise Mackenzie.
Louise is supported by the Board of Trustees, chaired by Rev Nick Gleich.
Strategy
GCM has a very clear purpose which is delivered through its strategy of "Aid, Transformation and Growth".
Through Aid we offer love, emergency provision and enhanced dignity for our service users.
Transformation is led by faith and advocacy to make changes for life.
Growth consists of opportunities to identify and achieve personal goals.
Safeguarding Policy Statement
GCM recognises that everyone has different levels of vulnerability, and each of us may be regarded as vulnerable at some time in our lives. All adults who may be vulnerable (regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation, or identity) have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse which can occur in all families, communities and social settings.
GCM does not tolerate harm or abuse being caused to vulnerable adults by anybody working for and/or representing GCM.
GCM has appointed a Designated Person to work with, and advise staff, on all safeguarding matters. If you have any safeguarding concerns please contact the Designated Person using the details below:
Canon Margaret Edwards, SAFEGUARDING OFFICER.
Phone Number: 01452 617129. Email Address: safeguarding@gloscitymission.org.uk
Do you know someone who is struggling? Find out how you can help using the resources below...
Streetlink
If you are sleeping rough, or have seen somebody sleeping rough, the first thing to do is to contact Streetlink.
Gloucester City Council
Help for those who are sleeping rough, are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
Tel: 01452 396 396
VIA
Free, confidential support to adults and young people with issues around alcohol dependency and drug use across the UK.
Narcotics Anonymous
If using drugs is causing problems in your life, NA can help.
GDASS
Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service. Support for victims of domestic abuse.
Tel: 01452 726 570
Street Vet
For pets that need help, belonging to those experiencing homelessness in the UK.